Controller

Who we are:

The Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) represents over 117,000 members and nearly 400 locals across the state and employs a full-time staff of over 170. Our members are public school teachers, faculty, professional staff, and education support professionals working at public schools, colleges, and universities. As a member-driven organization and the largest union in New England, our collective power makes MTA an influential voice for educators, students, and their communities. We are proud to be an advocate for social, racial, and economic justice and for a public education system that provides one of the cornerstones of a democratic society. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

The Controller is responsible for leading the organization’s accounting operations and ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial reporting. This role oversees general ledger, financial reporting, payroll, and accounts payable functions while maintaining strong internal controls and compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements. The Controller serves as a key financial partner to leadership, providing analysis, insight, and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Accounting & Financial Operations
• Oversee all accounting operations, including General Ledger, Financial Reporting, Accounts Payable, Payroll, and Fixed Assets.
• Oversee the Accounts Payable process to ensure proper and timely reimbursement of expenses in accordance with three union contracts, non-unit agreement, and organization policies, and accurate, timely Form IRS 1099 reporting.
• Oversee payroll function to ensure employees are paid in an accurate and timely manner, in accordance with provisions in three union contracts.
• Coordinate and direct the Fixed Asset addition and retirement identification process to ensure accurate financial statement presentation and property tax return filings.
• Ensure timely and accurate monthly and annual close processes.
• Advise and assist local associations on financial questions and tax filing matters and maintain MTA’s IRS group exemption listing.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare and oversee consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Research, design, and implement reporting and operational changes to ensure adherence with current accounting standards.
• Develop and present financial reports, analysis, and dashboards for executive leadership and Board meetings.

Budgeting & Financial Analysis

• Support development of the annual budget and ongoing financial forecasts.
• Provide actionable recommendations to improve financial performance and resource allocation.
• Prepare and review capital budgets.

Audit & Compliance

• Manage and act as primary contact for the organization’s audits, including year-end, 401K Compliance, Retirement, and Workers Compensation.
• Prepares and/or coordinates preparation of MTA and related entities' federal and state tax filings.
• Oversee the monthly sales tax return filing and associated invoice preparation and collection.
• Coordinate collection of internally prepared audit requests, schedule various audits, and act as primary contact with assorted auditors.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Evaluate and enhance accounting systems, processes, and controls to ensure compliance with current accounting standards.
• Participate in the development of Association accounting policy and administer approved accounting procedures.
• Support implementation of new ERP.
• Develop internal auditing procedures and evaluate and enhance systems and processes for efficiency, procedural compliance, and controls.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff.
• Partner cross-functionally to provide financial guidance and decision support.
• Conduct accounting research, prepare analyses, create reporting, commentary and presentation materials for senior leadership and governance bodies.
• Serve as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the CFO's absence.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA or CPA-track preferred.
• Seven to ten plus years of progressive accounting/finance experience including managing a financial accounting operation.
• Prior supervisory or management experience required.
• Five plus years of financial accounting experience, including financial reporting, audit, financial analysis, treasury, budgeting, expense reporting, accounting operations, and payroll.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills
• Experience with ERP/ accounting systems implementation and process automation.
• Experience managing audits and complex regulatory environments.
• Experience in non-profit, association, or public-sector accounting.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work with all levels of the organization.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written), leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work as a team member in a fast-paced financial environment.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multitask.
• Possess a high level of integrity and attention to detail, strong work ethic, cooperative attitude, and flexibility.

*MTA reserves the right to waive any qualifications at its discretion*

The MTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all staff.